Which class of drugs is most likely to cause chemo-induced peripheral neuropathy?

The correct answer is platinum drugs, which are known to cause chemo-induced peripheral neuropathy. These medications, such as cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin, can lead to nerve damage as a side effect of treatment. The mechanism through which these drugs induce neuropathy involves their action on the DNA of cancer cells, which can inadvertently affect healthy nerve cells.

Platinum drugs tend to disrupt cellular pathways, leading to oxidative stress and inflammation that can damage neuronal tissues. This results in symptoms such as pain, tingling, and numbness, typically starting in the hands and feet. Understanding this side effect is crucial for managing the quality of life in patients undergoing chemotherapy, as peripheral neuropathy can significantly affect their daily functioning.

In contrast, the other classes of drugs listed are not primarily associated with causing chemo-induced peripheral neuropathy. Antidepressants can be used to help manage the symptoms of neuropathic pain but do not inherently cause peripheral neuropathy themselves. Beta blockers are primarily used for cardiovascular issues and have no notable connection with inducing peripheral neuropathy in the context of chemotherapy. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to relieve pain and inflammation but similar to beta blockers, they do not lead to neurop